The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the impact of the burn camp experience, as it relates to body image, on participating burn-injured adolescents. Focus groups were conducted with 52 burn-injured adolescents at three burn camps in geographically diverse regions of the United States. Data revealed that burn camp is a place where these adolescents feel a sense of belonging and acceptance, a place where they don't have to hide their bodies, and a place where they can learn to integrate their scars into their overall body image in a positive way. Implications of this study include highlighting the contributions that burn camps may provide in helping burn-injured adolescents learn to cope with the devastating disfigurements that often accompany their injuries.

Social work faculty and graduate students conducted focus groups with 52 burn-injured adolescents from three burn camps to explore perceptions of their camp experience. Three themes emerged from data analysis that suggest burn camps play an important role in participants' lives. Camp is a place where burn-injured adolescents: (1) feel "normal" and accepted; (2) acquire insight in regard to self and meaning in life; and (3) gain confidence, increase self-esteem, and develop empathy. This project highlights how the use of qualitative research methods with grassroots organizations such as burn camps can serve as a link to greater social work involvement with this community.